Job interview: How to beat the stress test

Even when your employer is trying to build up the pressure, here's how you can stay confident and make a lasting impression. Illustrations by Uttam Ghosh and Dominic Xavier

Let's admit it. We've all gone through that uncomfortable moment when the prospective employer asked a question about how you'd deal in an imaginary situation.

Despite knowing very well how right you are, the panel did everything they could to make you feel uncomfortable. 

The next time you are in a stress interview, ensure you try the following:

1. Be the early bird

It is always better to reach early to the interview venue.

This helps in calming down and relaxing the mind which would otherwise, for example, be occupied with the fight you had with the auto driver on the road.

Always enter the interview room with a cool mind without any disturbing thoughts.

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Stay cool during the interview.

The interviewers are trying to test you on your stress bearing quotient.

Thus, there is absolutely no reason why you should panic.

If you know an answer, it’s good.

If you do not know the answer, just move on to the next question without thinking about the one you could not answer.

Prepare well for the interview.

In most of the interviews, certain standard questions are asked.

Write down your answers and get them reviewed by experts.

At the time, think of all the possible questions one can ask to derive a wrong answer from you.

Write them down and try to practice answering those questions as well.

This way, during the actual interview, you won’t face many surprises.

Your eye contact with the interviewers speaks about your confidence.

Try not to look up or down while speaking.

After all, you are just speaking to yet another human being.

Do not give the impression that you have actually mugged up all the answers.

Your preparation helps here.

When you have the right answer, you would not panic while looking into the eyes of the interviewer.

Smile. It costs nothing.

Do not frown. It can cost you a job.

Keep that smile on your face throughout the interview.

Show them that you are comfortable.

Your comfort levels too talk about how confident you are with your concepts.

The moment the interviewers see a frown on your face, the ball is in their court.

Never ever try to fake any information.

When in doubt, it is better not to put that point across.

Many commit this mistake of presenting false information and sounding confident while doing it.

Remember that the interviewer sitting in front of you is much more experienced than you are.

Be logical in all your reasoning and stick to your point if you are confident about it.

Last but not the least, always stay positive before, during and after the interview.

Let not depression take over you at any time.

A positive attitude will take you to greater heights.

If you do not clear this one interview, there will be many more opportunities.

Every incident is a lesson in life.

If you fail to make it through the interview, learn from your mistakes and come better prepared for the next one.